Les Amants du Pont-Neuf (French pronunciation:
​[lez‿amɑ̃ dy pɔ̃ nœf]) is a 1991 French film
directed by Leos Carax, starring Juliette
Binoche and Denis Lavant. The title refers to
the Pont Neuf bridge in Paris. The DVD of the
film is released under its French title in the
UK, as The Lovers on the Bridge in North
America, and, in a mistranslation of the
original title, as Lovers on the Ninth Bridge
(instead of "Lovers on the New Bridge") in
Australia.
Storyline:
Set against Paris'' oldest bridge, the Pont Neuf,
while it was closed for repairs, this film is a
love story between two young vagrants: Alex, a
would be circus performer addicted to alcohol
and sedatives and Michele, a painter driven to a
life on the streets because of a failed
relationship and an affliction which is slowly
turning her blind. The film portrays the harsh
existence of the homeless as Alex, Michele and
Hans, an older vagrant survive on the streets
with their wits. As they both slowly get their
lives back together, Michele becomes
increasingly dependent on Alex as her vision
deteriorates further. Fearing that Michele will
leave him if she receives a new medical
treatment Alex attempts to keep Michele
practically a prisoner. The streets, skies and
waterways of Paris are used as a backdrop to the
story in a series of stunning visuals which
dominate the film.